The Hosmer-Dorrance 5x (and its variants) are the most popular terminal devices for Body Powered prosthetic arms, which are themselves the most widely used type. Body powered arms are believed used by 90 per cent of the 50 percent of potential users who use arms, or therefore 45 per cent of potential users. Unpublished studies of recent military veterans suggest a higher usage rate of Myoelectric arms among these users.
An interesting feature of the 5x is the cigarette notch in the rubber that coats the hook. This rubber can be redone by Hosmer when it wears out.
While the 5X is stainless steel, among other variants are the 5XTi (titanium), and the 5XA (aluminum), which also comes anodized in various colors. It would be interesting to have user comments on the durability of the finish.
